Outdoors

From sea to shore, the opportunities to explore the great outdoors are abundant in Sarasota County.

Every season is the perfect season to get outside and enjoy the weather – thanks to Florida's year-round sunshine and temperate climate. The balmy breezes that waft in from the bayside, the estuaries that sparkle in the sunshine, the untamed wilderness of the wetlands and pinelands.

Your basecamp for eco-adventures and starry nights in South Sarasota County starts here. 

Adventure awaits beyond the shoreline. Find your wild on an overnight nature escape in some of our less-traveled, less-developed, lesser-known areas. 

You’re never too young to explore the great outdoors—and we’ve got plenty of short trails to help little ones enjoy nature.

“Are we there yet?” “How much longer?” “I’m tired; can you carry me?”

If you’re a parent, you’ve probably heard these kinds of questions and complaints what feels like a million times. They’re never fun to hear, especially when you’re trying to enjoy the beauty of nature by taking a family hike.

Nestled along the Gulf Coast of Florida, southwest of Orlando, south of Tampa and north of Naples, Sarasota County boasts 40 miles of coastline and eight barrier islands. There are numerous beaches and state parks, two Audubon societies, the Legacy Trail, a world-renowned rowing facility, historic archeological sites and numerous attractions that showcase wildlife, nature and opportunities for fun.

Savor the fresh air – and get your steps in while you’re at it – at these top parks and trails.

Any time of year, it’s easy to escape the hustle and bustle in Sarasota County. Parks, preserves and trails invite you to explore gorgeous natural landscapes – and feel miles away from it all as you do. Here are some of our favorites.

Here's why you’ll want to visit Sarasota’s newest waterfront space again and again.

Need help finding a 2022 New Year’s resolution? Here’s an easy one: Visit The Bay – and visit often. Sarasota’s beautiful, ever-evolving waterfront attraction is a vibrant expanse of green space that draws locals and visitors alike.

There is a ton to do here, so resolve to visit often.

Here are five fun ways to experience The Bay in 2022.

Grab your paddle and head to one of these five tranquil waterways.

Beat the big beach crowds and find more hushed hideaways for sunset happy hour

An avian lover's paradise, spot native Florida birds year-round—from Gulf beach shores to mangrove flatland and brackish estuaries

Birdwatching is among one of the most peaceful, meditative and gratifying activities you can enjoy in Sarasota County. And while winter is largely birding "season"—as thousands of migratory birds make their way south to escape the northern chill—birdwatching is a fantastic year-round hobby to partake in thanks to our year-round sunshine, subtropical climate and ecological diversity.